4 December and January Events in Hawaii for Music and Theater Lovers

Hau'oli mau lānui! ("happy holidays" in Native Hawaiian) The holiday season is just around the corner here in sunny Oahu, and while Hawaii might not experience the crisp mornings and changing tree colors of fall and winter on the mainland, the island is already brimming with music and theater events that will enchant visitors and kamaʻāina (Hawaii residents) alike. 

Start practicing your Hawaiian seasonal greetings, such as hau'oli lā ho'omaika'i (happy Thanksgiving), mele kalikimaka (merry Christmas), and hauʻoli makahiki hou (happy new year), then delve into Oahu's most festive symphonies, classic ballet performances, Hawaiian concerts, and other unforgettable experiences for music and theater enthusiasts.

 

The Top Four Hawaii Events For Winter 2024-2025

Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of The Nutcracker or unique island celebrations like the HAPA Holiday Extravaganza, these December and January music and arts events in Hawaii will bring warmth, joy, and a touch of tropical Hawaiian magic to your holidays.

 

1. Hawaii Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Concerts

  • Event Details: Established more than a century ago, the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest orchestras in America. Each year, they put on incredible holiday performances for symphony and music lovers of all ages — this year is no different:
    • Hapa Holiday Extravaganza (December 7): From festive sing-alongs to local island Christmas classics, the symphony kicks off the holiday season with surprise guests for this unique, only-in-Hawaii Christmas experience.
    • Tchaikovsky's Pathétique Symphony (December 8): Billed as a "year-end reflection" to wrap up 2024, the symphony brings renowned international and local symphonists to perform Tchaikovsky's final completed symphony from the 1800s.
    • How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Concert (December 11 and December 12): Watch the Dr. Seuss classic come to life as the symphony plays the blockbuster movie's film score live while you enjoy the movie on the big screen. 

 

2. Honolulu Brass Quintet's Holiday Brass (December 21)

  • Event Details: Taking place in the stunning Cathedral of St. Andrew (just a short 10-minute drive from the centrally located Waikiki Resort Hotel), the Honolulu Brass Quintet and the Choir of the Cathedral of St. Andrew come together for a rousing rendition of all your favorite holiday songs.
  • What You Need to Know: General tickets cost $40 (students can apply for free admission). If you're renting a car during your Waikiki vacation, parking will be available at The Cathedral of St. Andrew parking lot, accessible off of Beretania Street.

 

3. Christmas with The Mākaha Sons (December 14)

  • Event Details: This group is one of Hawaii's most famous local bands and is where fabled musician Israel Kamakawiwoʻole got his start. They've even performed for U.S. presidents. See them live at Hawaii Theatre in the heart of Oahu's historic Chinatown as they bring their trademark melodies to Christmas and holiday classics.
  • What You Need to Know: Tickets range in price from $40-$55. There's a small bar on the second floor of the theatre but no on-site restaurant (although there are dozens of great eateries just steps outside the theatre for pre- or post-concert dining).

 

4. Ballet Hawaii's Nutcracker (December 14 and December 15)

  • Event Details: Described as a "lavish Hawaiian-themed Nutcracker," Ballet Hawaii joins forces with world-renowned guest artists (including members of the New York City Ballet) for a Hawaiian twist to the 1892 two-act classical ballet. For example, it weaves in Queen Lili’uokalani (the last monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii) and the toy soldiers are dressed as the Hawaiian Royal Guard.
  • What You Need to Know: Tickets start at $50, and there's ample free parking, plus valet parking.

Whether you're seeking a family-friendly concert like How the Grinch Stole Christmas or a star-studded performance of classics like The Nutcracker, each of these events puts a unique spin on the holiday season that you won't be able to experience anywhere else other than in the Aloha State.

 

Ring in the Holidays at the Waikiki Resort Hotel

When you book your stay at the Waikiki Resort Hotel, you have easy, convenient access to all the venues where the island's best Hawaii theater events and Oahu concerts take place. Our central location also makes it easy to enjoy all the top activities to do in Oahu in the winter. Visit us online or call us at 1-800-367-5116 to see why our location, friendly staff, convenience, and amenities give us top ratings among our guests during the holiday season.